Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark - big musical has big problems

I read today that the $65 million Broadway production of Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark is enmeshed in "a web of problems," including the departure of lead actress Natalie Mendoza who plays Arachne, after she received a concussion during previews night, when she was hit in the head by stage equipment. My prayers are with her for a swift recovery.

Having  hurt myself during rehearsals earlier this year, I can really relate - it took months to recover. For a moment, I thought I had a concussion, so I trundled off to the doctor, but thankfully, I didn't have more than a bruised arm and a shock to my system. But, then, I'm not a dancer, don't do stunts, and I'm a lot older than Ms. Mendoza. I was just clumsy and wearing the wrong shoes with slippery socks during a warm-up game with energetic young actors, and my director was extremely concerned and cautious. 

With three other injuries on the Spider-Man set, let's hope this is the final warning to the producer, director, and stage manager, that actors and performers come first when safety is concerned.